By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) is introducing a new community event designed to help people better understand agriculture and where their food comes from.
The event, called Farm to Finish Line and Breakfast on the Farm, will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2026, and will include a farm-themed run, a free breakfast, and educational activities for families.
The event is organized by the SDSU College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. The goal is to connect residents with farming, food production, and agricultural research while providing fun experience for people of all ages.
“As more people are living in town, it’s important for them to still have a connection with agriculture and where their food comes from,” said Allie Arp, race director and director of marketing and communications for the college. “We hope people come out and have a great experience on the farm that resonates with them when they go home and when they’re making food choices in the future.”
The day begins with the Farm to Finish Line race at 8 a.m. at the SDSU Ruminant Nutrition Center. Participants will complete a 3.9-mile cross-country style run or walk through several agricultural research areas.
The route includes the Dairy Research and Training Facility, dairy barns, crop fields, pastures, native plant areas, and the SDSU Feed Mill before returning to the starting location.
All participants will receive a blue finisher’s ribbon. Champion and Reserve Champion ribbons will be awarded in several age categories, with Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion honors presented to the top male and female finishers.
Following the race, Breakfast on the Farm will run from 9:30 a.m. to noon and is open to everyone at no cost. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits and activities organized by SDSU, the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, and South Dakota Soybean.
Activities include planting seeds, making butter, meeting farm animals, and learning about food production through hands-on experiences. No registration is required for the breakfast and activities portion of the event.
Early registration for the race ends on September 12, 2026, while participants who register by September 14, 2026, are guaranteed an event T-shirt. Registration and packet pickup will also be available on Friday, September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 7:45 a.m.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, General